The DGET function in Google Sheets is a powerful tool designed for extracting a single value from a range or array that resembles a database. This function uses a SQL-like syntax to perform queries, making it particularly useful for users who require specific data retrieval based on certain criteria.

Syntax

DGET(database, field, criteria)

• database: The range of cells that constitutes the database, including headers.
• field: The column label or number that contains the data you want to retrieve.
• criteria: The range that defines the conditions for selecting the data.

Example #1

DGET(A1:C10, "Salary", E1:E2)

Uses the database in the range A1:C10 to return the ‘Salary’ corresponding to criteria defined in the range E1:E2. For example, if the criteria is a specific employee’s name, it might return 50000.

Example #2

DGET(A1:C10, 2, F1:F2)

This function retrieves the value from the second column of the database range A1:C10 based on the criteria in F1:F2. If the criteria match a specific department, it could return 20, indicating the number of employees.

Example #3

DGET(B1:D10, "Department", G1:G2)

Applies the criteria in G1:G2 to the database range B1:D10 to fetch the corresponding ‘Department’. If the criteria encompass a specific employee status, it may return ‘Sales’.

Error handling

• VALUE!: This indicates that the specified field is not found in the database, possibly due to an incorrect label or index.
• NUM!: Occurs when the field is referenced by a column number that does not exist within the database.
• N/A: This error is shown when no records match the criteria specified in the criteria range.

Conclusion

In summary, the DGET function is a valuable resource for users looking to extract specific data points from a structured range in Google Sheets. By leveraging its SQL-like syntax, users can efficiently query their data set for the precise information they need, streamlining the data analysis process.